Hundreds to support Zimbabwe demo

Hundreds of people are set to gather for a rally in support of those struggling against injustice in Zimbabwe.

The demonstration in London's Trafalgar Square, organised by Action for Southern Africa (Actsa), will hear speeches from Zimbabweans, campaigners and politicians.

Among the speakers will be two trade union leaders who were arrested and allegedly beaten during protests against hyperinflation and mass unemployment.

The arrests were among 400 that came in a recent clampdown by President Robert Mugabe's regime on street protests.

The London rally, which comes two days after International Women's Day, is also being held in support of a campaign raising funds for provision of sanitary products to Zimbabwe.

Inflation of more than 1,000% and the collapse of the country's currency have led to tampons and sanitary towels being unaffordable to most women.

Actsa's head of campaigns Kathryn Llewellyn said: "We urge everyone to come to the streets in solidarity and respect for the bravery of the women in Zimbabwe, not only as they struggle to meet the basic needs of their families, but as they fight to free their country."

The speakers will include Lovemore Matombo and Lucia Matibenga of the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions and Labour MP Kate Hoey.